Orchard Park High School – 11+ Practice Papers with Video Explanations
Orchard Park High School is a co-educational secondary school and sixth form located in Shirley, Croydon, South London. It serves students aged 11 to 18 and is part of the Greenshaw Learning Trust, a growing multi-academy trust known for supporting schools across London and the South East.
Previously known as Shirley High School, the school was rebranded as Orchard Park High School in 2017 following a transition in leadership and a significant improvement drive. Since joining the Greenshaw Learning Trust, the school has undergone rapid development, both in terms of academic performance and school culture.
The school is committed to inclusive education, high expectations, and developing well-rounded students through a balance of academic focus and pastoral support.
👨🎓👩🎓 Pupil Numbers
- Approximately 950–1,000 students from Years 7 to 13
- Includes a Sixth Form, offering a range of A-Levels and vocational qualifications
- Mixed-gender and non-selective
- Admits around 180 students into Year 7 annually
- Draws students from Shirley, Croydon, and surrounding areas
🎓 Academic Reputation
Orchard Park High School has made significant improvements in recent years and is now recognised for rising academic standards and strong leadership. The school is focused on improving outcomes year-on-year and benefits from support through the Greenshaw Learning Trust.
📈 Academic Performance Highlights:
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GCSE Results:
- Improvement in Progress 8 and Attainment 8 scores over the past few years
- Strength in core subjects: English, Mathematics, and Science
- A growing focus on raising achievement across all student groups
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Sixth Form:
- Offers a combination of academic (A-Level) and vocational pathways
- Students progress to university, apprenticeships, or further training
- Supportive environment with UCAS and careers guidance
🏆 Awards & Recognition
- Rated “Good” by Ofsted (2022)
- Inspectors praised the school’s leadership, student behaviour, and focus on continuous improvement
- Noted for its inclusive ethos and positive school culture
- Member of the Greenshaw Learning Trust, which provides strong leadership and access to wider resources
- Recognised locally for progress in:
- Raising standards in literacy and numeracy
- Student behaviour and safeguarding
- Pastoral care and inclusion
Orchard Park High School is a rapidly improving and inclusive secondary school that aims to empower students with ambition, knowledge, and confidence. With strong leadership from the Greenshaw Learning Trust, a commitment to academic improvement, and a welcoming atmosphere, it is becoming a school of choice for families in Croydon and South London.
🏫 Orchard Park High School – Contact Information
School Name: Orchard Park High School
Type: Co-educational Secondary School and Sixth Form (Ages 11–18), Academy
Part of: Greenshaw Learning Trust
📍 Address:
Orchard Park High School
Orchard Way
Shirley
Croydon
CR0 7NJ
United Kingdom
☎️ Telephone:
+44 (0)20 8776 0220
📧 Email:
🌐 Website:
https://www.orchardparkhigh.co.uk
📱 Social Media:
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Twitter/X: @OrchardParkHigh
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Facebook: Orchard Park High School
📝 Exam Board: Bexley Selection Test
How to Use ExamTutor 11 Plus Practice Papers with Video Explanations to Achieve High Scores for Orchard Park High School in the 11+ Entrance Exam
Orchard Park High School uses its own 11+ entrance test for admission to Year 7. To secure a place, students must perform well in the exam, which assesses Reasoning skills.
Why Use ExamTutor 11 Plus Practice Papers with Video Explanations?
✔ Designed for Independent School Entrance Exams – Covers question types that may appear in the Orchard Park High School entrance test.
✔ Video Explanations for Every Question – Helps students understand mistakes and improve problem-solving skills.
✔ Identifies Strengths & Weaknesses – Tailored practice to improve weaker areas.
✔ Boosts Confidence & Exam Performance – Familiarisation with exam-style questions reduces anxiety.
How to Use ExamTutor for Orchard Park High School 11+ Exam Preparation
1. Understand the Exam Format
📌Orchard Park High School 11+ entrance test typically includes:
- Reasoning (Verbal & Non-Verbal) – Logical thinking, pattern recognition, and spatial awareness.
✔ Start by introducing your child to each section and understanding what is tested.
2. Create a Structured Study Plan
✔ Allocate dedicated study time for each subject every week.
✔ Use ExamTutor practice papers to track progress.
✔ Practice under timed conditions to improve speed and accuracy.
3. Boost Confidence with Video Explanations
Some 11+ question types can be challenging for students. Our expert-led video explanations:
🎥 Break down complex questions step by step
🎥 Teach proven problem-solving techniques
🎥 Show shortcuts and strategies to save time in the exam
🎥 Help students reinforce learning and build confidence
How to Use Video Explanations Effectively:
✅ Review incorrect answers with video solutions – Identify and correct mistakes early.
✅ Take notes on key strategies – Record important problem-solving techniques for future reference.
✅ Rewatch explanations for difficult topics – Reinforce learning by revisiting challenging areas.
4. Develop Exam Strategies & Time Management
✔ Teach skimming and scanning techniques for comprehension questions.
✔ Use mental maths tricks to speed up calculations.
✔ Practice logical reasoning techniques to improve accuracy in reasoning questions.
5. Take Practice Exams & Review Performance
✔ Schedule practice exams close to the real test date.
✔ Analyse results and focus on weak areas.
✔ Use ExamTutor’s tutor-led video explanations for targeted revision.
6. Boost Confidence & Reduce Exam Stress
✔ Maintain a positive and encouraging learning environment.
✔ Encourage regular breaks and revision balance.
✔ Use mindfulness techniques to stay calm before the exam.
Final Tips for Success
✔ Start preparation early – At least 6-12 months before the exam.
✔ Use ExamTutor’s practice tests regularly – Build confidence with real exam-style questions.
✔ Practice writing skills – Creative writing is often a key component in independent school exams.
✔ Stay consistent – Small daily practice sessions are more effective than last-minute cramming.
✔ Attend an open day or taster session at Orchard Park High School – Familiarity with the school environment can boost confidence.
By using ExamTutor 11 Plus Practice Papers with Video Explanations, your child will gain strong exam skills, improve accuracy, and build confidence—increasing their chances of success in the Orchard Park High School 11+ Entrance Exam.
📌 Start practicing today to help your child achieve a top score and secure a place at Orchard Park High School! 🚀
Orchard Park High School – Year 7 Admissions Criteria & How to Apply
Orchard Park High School is a non-selective, mixed secondary academy located in Shirley, Croydon, and is part of the Greenshaw Learning Trust.
✅ Year 7 Admissions Criteria
Orchard Park High School admits 180 pupils into Year 7. If the number of applications exceeds the number of places, the following oversubscription criteria apply in order:
- Looked After Children or Previously Looked After Children
- Siblings – Children with a brother or sister already attending the school at the time of admission
- Children of staff – Where the member of staff has been employed for at least two years or was recruited to fill a post with a demonstrable skill shortage
- Proximity to the school – Priority given to those living closest to the school (measured in a straight line)
📝 How to Apply for Year 7 at Orchard Park High School
Step 1: Visit the School (Optional)
- Attend an Open Evening (usually held in September/October) to explore the school and meet staff
Step 2: Submit the Common Application Form (CAF)
- Apply through Croydon Council (or your home local authority if you live outside Croydon)
- Deadline: 31st October
- List Orchard Park High School as one of your preferred schools
Step 3: National Offer Day
- Offers made on 1st March
- You will receive your school allocation from your local authority
ℹ️ Additional Information
- Website: www.orchardparkhigh.co.uk
- Admissions Policy: Found under Key Information > Admissions
- Apply via Croydon Council: www.croydon.gov.uk/school-admissions
- Contact: admissions@orchardparkhigh.net | Tel: 020 8776 0220
